Despite weather, Kentucky Kingdom still set to open on schedule

This year's harsh winter isn't just impacting school days and summer vacations. It's also presenting a bit of a challenge for workers who are gearing up for the reopening of Kentucky Kingdom.

It's hard to imagine enjoying Hurricane Bay or having a snow cone at Kentucky Kingdom with the cold weather in the area, but officials at the park said despite the weather, May 24 remains as opening day.

"Well, you know, you lose a half a day here and there because of the weather, you might even lose a full day, (but) we have a very committed crew," said John Mulcahy with Kentucky Kingdom.

Come rain, snow or shine a deadline is a deadline. For the crew and contractors at Kentucky Kingdom, the weather has meant extra hours, coming in early and working through weekends and it's transforming the park.

"Every day that you walk through the park, you see something different. That's because we have between 70-100 people on any given day out here bringing the Kingdom back to life," said Mulcahy.

That includes the repainting of cars and rides, setting up tracks for the new steel coaster, Lightning Run, and planting the shrubbery that will transform the landscaping.

While the crew is working overtime to open on time, the weather has caused another concern. Summer break is going to start later meaning seasonal employees may still be in school.

"It affects us and many of the other attractions in the area in many different ways. Certainly a significant number of our seasonal team members will come from the high school ranks," said Mulcahy.

Mulcahy said they've had to re-evaluate and rely more on college students instead. They also know it will take longer to get families in the summer spirit, but with new attractions like the Hurricane Bay Beach Club, an addition to the water park bringing 20 new water attractions and slides, he feels the crowds will come.

"If the number of calls we get, the online inquiries we get, the public support we see out in the community is any indication, they'll be here," said Mulcahy.

On opening day, there will be 54 rides and attractions. Twenty of them will be brand new.

Season passes are still available at the park's opening rate of $59.95. Click here for more information.